Union says court ruling is 'big victory' for North East workers

The case was brought by the union Unison, which argued that forcing workers to pay up to £1,200 was preventing many from enforcing their employment rights.

Employment tribunals in the North East have fallen by 71% since the fees were introduced in 2013 as there were 6,770 claims were made before the introduction, compared with 1,939 in the most recent year, according to the TUC.

BBCCopyright: BBC

TUC northern regional secretary Beth Farhat said “This is a massive win for working people in the North East.

"Congratulations to Unison for doggedly pursuing this case. Today’s result shows the value of working people standing together in trade unions".

“Low-paid workers across the North East were priced out of justice, even when they’ve been faced with harassment or have been sacked unfairly.

“Tribunal fees have been a bonanza for bad bosses, giving them free rein to mistreat staff. The government must now refund all past fees as soon as possible."

Envelope update

Severe accident: A1027 County Durham both ways

BBC News Travel

A1027 County Durham both ways severe accident, at A177 Durham Road.

A1027 County Durham - A1027 Bishopton Avenue in Stockton-On-Tees closed at the A177 Durham Road junction, because of a serious accident. On the roundabout. Also affecting A177 Durham Road at A1027 Bishopton Avenue.

Dozens of arrests in first few days of Operation Kestrel

Police say more than 40 people have been arrested as part of Operation Kestrel in its first week.

The operation - which involves police working alongside immigration and Border Force officers, voluntary organisations and local authorities - targets foreign offenders and aims to protect vulnerable people being exploited by criminals.

Since Monday, across the Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland force areas, 46 people have been arrested for slavery and immigration offences and nine vulnerable victims have been helped.